Chicago, IL -  Representing La Salle on a larger stage, women's soccer student-athlete Sophia Rolon embraced the opportunity to attend the Atlantic 10 SAAC meetings, using the experience to amplify the voice of Explorers while gaining valuable insight to bring back to campus.

Rolon's approach to the role was rooted in the same motivation that led her to pursue a leadership position on SAAC's executive board.

"To take advantage of this opportunity, I drew directly from the ambition and dedication that drove me to apply for the E-Board," Rolon said. "When I first pursued an executive leadership role, my goal was to step up and be a voice for my peers, ensuring that the student-athlete experience at La Salle was elevated and supported."

That mindset carried over as she stepped into her role as La Salle's Atlantic 10 representative, where she saw the opportunity to expand her impact beyond campus.

"I recognized that being named the new Atlantic 10 Conference representative for SAAC was the perfect extension of that mission, offering a much larger platform to enact meaningful change," Rolon said. "I knew that this role would not be easy, but as a competitive athlete, I enjoy taking on challenges."

Throughout the meetings, Rolon made it a priority to stay actively engaged, ensuring La Salle's voice was heard in conference-wide discussions.

"In the meetings, I tried to make sure that I was representing La Salle well by staying engaged, answering questions as well as asking them," Rolon said. "Fortunately, the administration members with us made sure everyone had a voice and was involved in some way as we had multiple open discussions where everyone got an opportunity to speak for which I enjoyed."

One area that stood out was the discussion surrounding potential NCAA legislation, where Rolon took initiative in asking questions on behalf of student-athletes.

"When it came to us going over the possible new NCAA legislations, I made sure to ask questions that I believe most athletes would want to know."

Beyond the formal sessions, Rolon also valued the opportunity to connect with fellow representatives across the conference.

"Overall, it was insightful to see how exceptional the other representatives from the other schools in the conference presented themselves with such professionalism," Rolon said.

As she returns to La Salle, Rolon brings back more than just knowledge—she brings new relationships and a vision for continued growth within SAAC.

"From all the interactions I experienced with my meetings with the reps as well as the individual conversations I had with the new A-10 commissioner, Dan Leibovitz, I plan on bringing back new connections and ideas for what is to come for SAAC at La Salle," Rolon said. "Luckily, all of the reps and I have each other's contact information to stay in touch with each other regarding possible combined workshops to do or just any opportunities that we would like to take advantage of."

Rolon hopes to inspire fellow student-athletes to think beyond their time in competition.

"Most importantly though, I plan on providing inspiration to my campus with the understanding that your life does not end when your sport is over and that the possibilities are endless," Rolon said.

Through her leadership and engagement, Rolon continues to represent La Salle with distinction while helping shape the future of the student-athlete experience both on campus and across the Atlantic 10 Conference.